What is a Radial Head Fracture?

What Causes a Radial Head Fracture?

When someone falls onto an outstretched hand, force travels through the forearm to the radial head. The bone may also break with an elbow dislocation or ligament injury. Small fractures can be subtle on the first X-ray, so the examination remains important.

Symptoms

• Pain on the outer side of the elbow near the thumb side
• Pain when bending and straightening the elbow or rotating the forearm
• Swelling and reduced elbow movement
• Difficulty turning the palm up or down

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a radial head fracture treated?

Stable fractures that do not disturb joint motion may need brief protection followed by early controlled movement. Displacement, an uneven joint surface or associated ligament damage may require surgical assessment. Prolonged immobilisation can cause elbow stiffness, so follow-up and guided motion are important.